California Whitewater

HEADWATERS IN SEC 28, T18N, R8W TO ONE-THIRD MILE BEYOND SNOW MT. WILDERNESS BOUNDARY AT PRIVATE PROPERTY BOUNDARY NEAR PARADISE CREEK


STREAMFLOW: 101 CFS

Class III-IV River Run

The Headwaters section of the Whitewater River in California is a popular spot for paddlers with a Class III-IV rating and a stream flow range between 300-600 cfs. This 7.5-mile segment begins in Section 28, T18N, R8W and ends at the private property boundary near Paradise Creek, one-third mile beyond the Snow Mt. Wilderness boundary. The river is characterized by several challenging rapids, such as The Chute, Wagon Wheel, and World Famous Toilet Bowl. Paddlers must exercise caution and have advanced skills to navigate these sections safely.

In terms of regulations, the Headwaters section is managed by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) and requires a permit to float. Camping is allowed at designated sites and campfires are permitted only in established fire rings. Additionally, visitors must pack out all trash and follow Leave No Trace principles to help preserve the area's natural beauty.

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HEADWATERS IN SEC 28, T18N, R8W TO ONE-THIRD MILE BEYOND SNOW MT. WILDERNESS BOUNDARY AT PRIVATE PROPERTY BOUNDARY NEAR PARADISE CREEK
Last Updated 2024-04-25
River Levels 93 cfs (6.19 ft)
Percent of Normal 90%
Reporting Streamgauge EF RUSSIAN R NR CALPELLA CA
Elevation 837 ft.
River
Watershed Upper Stony

Nearby Camping
Location Campsites Reservations Toilets Showers Elevation
Fouts 11 1,611 ft
Davis Flat 29 1,641 ft
Main Letts 18 4,546 ft
Stirrup - Letts Lake 28 4,378 ft
Saddle Camp Loop 9 4,522 ft
Little Stony 13 1,461 ft
Dixie Glade Horse Camp 7 3,043 ft
Grimy Gulch - Stony Gorge Reservoir - USBR Numerous 868 ft
Mill Valley 15 4,086 ft
Spillway - Letts Lake 9 4,496 ft
Cedar Camp 6 4,262 ft